Working together for the future of food

The year is 2020. Climate change is driving up food prices and social unrest is sure to follow. How will governments, food producers, banks, and multilateral institutions like the UN work together over the next decade to ensure that everyone on the planet has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food?

This is the fictional scenario that 65 private and public sector leaders from more than a dozen countries played out at WWF on Nov. 9 and 10. Together with Center for American Progress, Cargill, Mars, and CNA, we designed a game—Food Chain Reaction—to help understand how governments, institutions, and companies might interact during a future global food crisis.

Feeding the world and protecting the precious resources that all life on Earth require is no easy feat. That’s why WWF and our partners brought together such a diverse group of people to “game out” how we can balance these needs even in the direst situations.

It’s a big job. And no one person or organization can do it alone. But together we can.

Here are the players in action.

Team China discusses how to manage water use and meet global food needs.

Former U.S. Senator Tom Daschle sets the stage for the 2020-2030 scenario.

Team India considers next steps as the game approaches 2025.

Continental Africa’s efforts to build a sustainable food system are critical to the world.

Brazil discusses how to boost production while protecting its natural resources.

After the players returned to 2015, John Podesta offers thanks for their hard work and insights.

Visit foodchainreaction.org, for more information about the game, its players, and the lessons we’re learning from the experience.